Identifying Bees

Description

This course will provide an introduction to the identification and ecology of wild bees in the UK, including their lifecycle, nesting and foraging requirements, and associated predators and parasites.

Microscopes and dichotomous keys (which will be provided) will be used to identify bee specimens in the lab, providing a unique opportunity to examine bees up-close to get familiar with key identification features. The varied habitats of Denmark Farm will allow you to see living bees and develop collecting and field identification skills. This course will also discuss bee conservation and the important role of biological recording. The course is suitable for professionals working in the conservation & environmental sector and also keen amateurs.

What to Bring:
Outdoor footwear (i.e. walking boots/shoes)
Waterproof jacket / trousers
Sun cream, insect repellent, sun hat
Small rucksack with flask / water bottle / packed lunch
Butterfly/insect net and collecting pots (if you have them)
A notebook
A copy of Steven Falk’s ‘Field Guide to the Bees of Great Britain and Ireland’ (if you have one)
A hand lens (x10 should be sufficient)

Tutor: Liam Olds is a freelance entomologist and a former entomology apprentice at the National Museum of Wales. Liam has quickly developed a reputation as a budding invertebrate specialist and has won several local and national awards for his work in invertebrate conservation and recording, including the ‘Adult Newcomer Award’ at the NBN Awards for Wildlife Recording in 2017. Liam also works as Conservation Officer for Buglife – The Invertebrate Conservation Trust, undertaking specialist invertebrate surveys and training across England and Wales. Liam was the lead author on the ‘Wales Threatened Bee Report’ in 2018.

All proceeds from our events and holidays are ploughed directly back into managing our 40 acre nature reserve. Thank you for your support and please do come to visit soon.

Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts. Start dates may be amended on request.

What's included in the price?

Face to face teaching and light refreshments. Please bring a packed lunch

Maker

Mara at Denmark Farm Conservation Centre

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